A new, private sector conceived reefer train solution that will see the delivery of fruit exports country-wide from source to port is due to be presented to Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) in the next few weeks. Known as the Cool Train project, it’s a joint initiative of DAZU Rail, Port Logistics Solutions and MechMobility.

“This is brand new to the South African market,” said Zurayda Christians of DAZU Rail. “We are currently in the final stages of drafting a proof of concept which will be presented to TFR.” Christians pointed out that the fruit industry faced a number of challenges.

“In terms of exporting to the European Union, fruit contamination as a result of pests has been a concern and the EU has implemented a Fruit Management System introducing some regulation for fruit-producing countries,” she said.

It’s been in place since January this year and failure to comply with these regulations could have significant ramifications for SA exporters.

“There is also the logistics challenge that exporters face – from wind delays to equipment availability and reliability, congested ports, the drought, reefer container cable theft, and erratic weather patterns to name a few,” she said. “The implementation of the restriction on moving high cube containers on the roads in 2019 is another concern and will seriously impact the fruit industry.”